Party Leader Advocates for Complete Abolition of Prosecutor’s Investigative Authority
A prominent political leader has emphatically called for the complete dismantling of prosecutors’ investigative powers, stating that the “final marker of prosecutorial reform is the full abolition of supplementary investigative authority.” This stance directly challenges the President’s recent remarks, which suggested the necessity of retaining some level of supplementary investigative power for exceptional circumstances to prevent future issues.
“Do Not Even Dream of Investigative Powers,” Leader Declares
Speaking at a Supreme Council meeting held at the National Assembly, the party leader asserted, “For a complete clean sweep, even the smallest remnants of corruption must be addressed in legislation. We must ensure that people cannot even dream of corruption.” Extending this principle to the legal system, the leader declared, “The core principle of prosecutorial reform is the complete separation of investigation and indictment. We must make it clear to prosecutors, who are constantly seeking to protect their investigative powers, that they should ‘not even dream of investigative authority.'”
“Every Last Vestige of Supplementary Authority Must Be Erased”
The leader further elaborated on the perceived dangers of retaining any supplementary investigative powers, stating, “Even a sliver of supplementary investigative authority, if granted, can be fashioned into a weapon that could be turned against the government at any moment.” Citing past prosecutorial actions, the leader argued, “Given the history of prosecutorial conduct, this is entirely plausible. Therefore, every last vestige of supplementary investigative authority must be eliminated. The complete abolition of supplementary investigative authority is the only correct answer.”
Party Unites Behind Demand for Abolition Ahead of Convention
The party leader and his supporters within the Democratic Party are making the abolition of prosecutorial supplementary investigative powers a central agenda item as they approach their party convention in August. This firm stance contrasts with the President’s ongoing efforts to persuade the public of the need for retaining a minimal level of supplementary investigative authority.
Ruling Party Acknowledges Potential for Conflict
Sources within the ruling party have indicated that the President’s position remains that “a minimum level of a supplementary measure is necessary.” They also anticipate that the issue of supplementary investigative powers “will likely emerge as a major point of contention between the party and the President.”
Concerns Raised Over Judicial Ruling
In related news, the party leader also expressed strong disapproval of a recent court ruling acquitting a former Gyeonggi Province Governor in a case involving allegations of a “liquor party.” The leader described the verdict as “unacceptable,” “truly regrettable,” and “strange.” The leader argued that instead of relying on whether alcohol was consumed, the court should have investigated fundamental evidence such as whether food was actually served and examined the prosecution’s investigation report and food purchase records to reach a decision. The leader expressed deep regret over the court’s handling of the case and expressed hope for a different outcome in the upcoming appeal.
